“ ‘While we’ve come a long way, LGBT inequality and hate crimes are still very real today,’ Josue, a close friend of Matt’s herself, said in a statement. ‘Parts of Matt’s story are unfortunately still very much a part of young people’s realities.’ “ Read the full article in LOGO … [Read more...]
LGBT Teen Friendly Films on Netflix Instant!
The Way He Looks (2014) - A new classmate transforms the daily life of a blind teenager who longs for independence and disrupts his relationship with his best friend. For the Bible Tells Me So (2007) - This documentary examines the ways in which conservative Christian groups have used -- and sometimes exploited -- scripture to deny human rights. Bridegroom (2013) - This timey documentary tells the story of Shane Bitney Crone, who finds himself without marriages legal protections when his same-sex partner dies. Call Me Kuchu (2012) - This … [Read more...]
PBS Frontline: “Growing Up Trans”
Mixed reviews on PBS's intimate look at the struggles and choices facing transgender kids and their families. View the full episode on PBS.org Interested in learning more about this episode of Frontline? You can read “Growing up trans: Six teens open up about discovering who they really are” in The Globe and Mail … [Read more...]
LGBT News: Girl Scouts Choose Transgender Girls Over $100,000 Donation
“Megan Ferland told Seattle Metropolitan that the Girl Scouts of Western Washington were “thrilled” to pull in a $100,000 donation earlier this year...But then Ferland learned that the gift came with a stipulation, Seattle Met reported: The donor wanted a promise that the money wouldn’t be used to support transgender girls. So that donation — all $100,000 of it — went back to the donor.” Read the full article in The Washington Post … [Read more...]
[Reminder] PFLAG of Santa Cruz County Presents: “Four Decades: Gay Beach Volleyball at the Boardwalk”
Please join us as participants, celebrating their 37th season this year, will be sharing about one of the oldest, continuous gatherings in our community, as well as about the ways in which they contribute to the community. When: Tuesday, July 14th , 2015 @ 7:00 – 9:00 pm Where: Peace United Church of Christ, 900 High Street, Santa Cruz, 95060 For more information: pflagscc@gmail.com, www.pflagscc.org or (831) 427-4016. … [Read more...]
Brown Boi Project – Now Accepting Writing Submissions
Do you want to help change the way communities of color talk about gender? Brown Boi Project is looking for pieces written by YOU! We're holding the Summer of Brown Boi, a national campaign aimed at expanding the conversation around gender-racial justice in communities of color, so we'd like your pieces about gender and race! Writers need not identify as masculine of center to submit. Length: 800 - 2000 words Deadline: Friday, July 31st, 2015 Please include a short bio. Send all submissions to media@brownboiproject.org. Your work will be … [Read more...]
[Reminder] 2015 Gender Spectrum Conference, July 11 & 12, Moraga, CA
The Gender Spectrum Conference is an opportunity for youth and families to spend a weekend gaining the resources, information, and community needed to help young people effectively navigate their world. Click Here to learn about this years Middle and High School youth programs! When: Saturday July 11th, 2015 - Sunday July 12th, 2015 Where: Saint Mary’s College of California, 1928 Saint Mary’s Road, Moraga, CA 94556 Visit genderspectrum.org for more information and to register today! … [Read more...]
LGBT History: Santa Cruz Local and LGBT Activist Dr. Chris DiMaio Chosen for Veteran of the Year
State Assemblymember Mark Stone designates Dr. Chris DiMaio as Veteran of the year! A transcript of his speech dedicated to DiMaio is attached to this newsletter. “Aptos Doctor Honored as Veteran of the Year” - Santa Cruz Sentinel “DiMaio, now 75, spent years after the war as a psychiatrist in Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties helping veterans cope with their trauma. Since retiring in 2005, he has volunteered with Santa Cruz County veterans programs, performing mental health evaluations...In 2011, he and his partner Andrew Pudan were the … [Read more...]
LGBT News: The Teachers Who Gave Me a Voice
“Once I felt comfortable sharing my views within the club, I felt I could share my thoughts with the world. This is another thing I have to thank them for because without these stepping stones I would still be that timid, closeted girl in the back of the classroom, too scared to share her thoughts. I would not have the passion to change the world and the courage to stand up for myself if not for my wonderful teachers. And trust me, I have to stand up for myself often in my tough little town.” Read Parker Jessica Davidson’s full article in The … [Read more...]
[Reminder] Out in Our Faith Presents “Call Me Kuchu”, July 18
Join Temple Beth El, Ocean Gate Zen Center, and the Diversity Center for the Santa Cruz premiere of the film “Call Me Kuchu” with special Ugandan guest speaker John “Long Jones” Abdallah Wambere, and Dharma Rain Zen Center practitioner David Robinson, to share their experiences with Uganda’s anti-homosexual laws. Refreshments provided. When: Saturday, July 18th, 2015 @ 7pm - 9pm Where: Temple Beth El, 3055 Porter Gulch Rd, Aptos, CA 95003 Cost = $3 - $10 (Sliding scale, no one will be turned away for lack of funds.) For more information … [Read more...]